Important items to bring to the hospital

Crocs. You will want to wear slip-on shoes for several weeks (and maybe more) following the surgery so you don't have to bend over to tie your shoes. Any slip-on shoes will work. Crocs are a favorite because they are easy to get on, have some grip on the sole, and can be worn both indoors and outdoors. They are useful in the hospital, as you will be encouraged to get up and walk around as much as possible soon after the surgery.

Ice packs. Ice is a valuable pain reliever. Applying an ice pack to numb the painful area will go a long way to easing pain and discomfort. An ice massage can be very soothing. If your doctor or nurse doesn't bring it up, you should ask about how to use ice or cold packs for pain control – it really helps.

Sports water bottle. You'll be encouraged to drink a lot of liquids while in the hospital, and if you don't want to have to sit up for each sip, bring a sports bottle with a squirt top so that you can drink while lying down or reclining without spilling all over yourself.

Laxatives and/or stool softeners. Chances are your doctor won't bring up this subject, but it will be an important issue to you following the surgery. Post-operative constipation is a common occurrence and it can be a major source of pain and discomfort. Prune juice, apple cider, and/or over-the-counter laxatives and stool softeners will all help prevent postoperative constipation. Your hospital will likely provide these, but you may want to bring them just to play it safe.

Trash bags. Putting a trash bag on the bed will reduce the friction so you slide more easily onto the bed. Also, you'll want a trash bag to put on the car seat for the ride home.

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Additional things you may want to bring to the hospital

Lip balm and hand moisturizer. The air in the hospitals is almost always uncomfortably dry.

Foot cream. If the nurses put the special booties on your feet to help prevent a blood clot, you'll want someone to put some moisturizer on your feet to prevent soreness.

Comfortable robe. You'll be encouraged to be up and walking around as soon as possible after the surgery, and those hospital gowns don't afford much coverage in the back.

Pajamas. If you bring PJs, make sure they button up the front so you won't have to reach over your head to pull the top on.

Toiletries. You may be allowed to shower, and you'll definitely want to brush your teeth.

Hairbands and a brush. If you have long hair and don't want it to get tangled, bring something to pull your hair back.

Ear plugs. If you're a light sleeper, use ear plugs to get some rest. Hospitals are busy, noisy places. An iPod will also drown out the noise.

Scratcher. Bring some type of long stick for getting those hard to reach itches. A long-handled wooden spoon will work just fine, but you can also get a cute long-handled back scratcher.

Recuperating at home

In addition to everything from the above list (except maybe the ear plugs), you will need a few things to help with your recovery at home, such as:

Mini-fridge. Especially after a spine fusion, you probably won't want to be running up and down the stairs during your recovery. A mini-fridge in your room allows you to stock up on water, juice, and other essentials for the day. A cheaper alternative is a cooler that can be filled with ice packs or ice to keep your juice and snacks cool.

Wireless internet. A wireless internet connection will allow you to have your laptop in bed with you to keep in touch. For many, it's helpful to be able to log onto supportive and informative discussion forums while recovering.

Grabber. After lumbar spine fusion, it is likely that you will be told not to bend over or reach up for anything for a while. A simple grabber can help you pick up items off the floor and reach for things from an upper shelf. They can usually be found at stores like Walgreens or Wal-Mart (in the pharmacy area) for around $10.

Heating pads. Starting about two days after surgery, the doctor may allow you to use heating pads to alleviate local pain and discomfort.

A squeeze bottle. After a fusion surgery, it's tough to twist or reach, even just to clean up after a bowel movement. You can use a squeeze bottle filled with warm water. Moist wipes also work well.

Extra pillows. A few well-placed pillows add support. Try placing one under your knees while lying on your back or in a reclining position, which will take stress off the low back. Use firm pillows to prop yourself up to a reclining position while in bed. If you're a side sleeper, you'll want a pillow to tuck between your knees to keep your low back at rest.

Shower brush with long handle. These will help you get clean without bending, twisting or reaching. You can pour liquid soap or liquid moisturizer on the brush.

Recliner or extra cushion. In the weeks following surgery, sitting can be painful or uncomfortable. It is best to avoid sitting for long periods. A recliner can help ease pressure on the low back, and sitting on something cushioned, such as an inflatable donut pillow or hemorrhoid pillow, can make sitting more tolerable.

Other things you may need (or may want to discuss with your doctor)

Shower seat and handicap rails in the shower. Not everyone needs these, but it is something you may want to discuss with your doctor.

Toilet riser. This will help immensely with going to the bathroom, especially if you're a female and drinking all the liquids you're supposed to! Risers with hand rails to lean on are most helpful.

Cane or walker. You may feel more comfortable walking with some added stability, and if so, discuss getting a cane or walker with your doctor.

Devices such as shower chairs, toilet seat risers, walkers, and canes are usually covered by insurance, so check with your doctor and have it sent home with you from the hospital if possible. These types of equipment are also available to rent or buy from most medical supply stores, and are often available second hand (and inexpensively) at Salvation Army or other resale stores.

For those of you preparing for surgery, best wishes for a successful surgery and a speedy (and uneventful) recovery!

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